Since the beginning of his professional career, Hopf has not had to look further than his own team to find another catcher held in higher regard. The former undrafted free agent spent four seasons as a backup in the Milwaukee Brewers organization and filled the same role last season with the Somerset Patriots.

Now, as Hopf faces his first opportunity to be an everyday regular, those ominous nine words carry more weight than ever before.

“You have to have the mindset to work hard no matter what,” he said. “I’m going to put forth my best effort and not let proving I can be a starter be my motivation. I’m just going to take care of the things that I can control.”

The Patriots already have agreed to a contract with John Pachot, but the veteran Atlantic League catcher is not expected to report until mid-May. Until then, Hopf has the spotlight and a chance to secure future playing time.